Maoist use of ethnic groups complicates Nepal’s peace

Kathmandu - The end of 11 years of a Maoist insurgency in Nepal has given rise to growing violence blamed on ethnic groups demanding a greater say in the country’s political and economic decisions, often resulting in political losses for the former rebels.

Until recently, the ethnic groups had largely remained silent, but the Maoist insurgency brought them to the forefront.

‘The Maoists systematically used ethnic groups that were largely ignored by the ruling elites by offering them a share of governance in areas they controlled during the insurgency,’ said political analyst Sudhir Sharma, who closely followed the Maoist conflict. ‘In exchange, the ethnic groups provided the rebels with manpower to fight government forces.’

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